The Spinal Cord and Nerves
12th Grade · Science · 60 min
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Learning Objective
I can describe the structure and function of the spinal cord and its connection to the peripheral nervous system.
- 1
The spinal cord extends from the brainstem to the lumbar region of the vertebral column and is protected by bony vertebrae.
- 2
Each segment of the spinal cord is associated with a pair of spinal nerves that transmit sensory information to the brain and relay motor commands from the brain to muscles and glands.
- 3
Reflex arcs are rapid, involuntary responses mediated by the spinal cord that bypass the brain, allowing for immediate protective actions.
